Jets LB David Harris out at least 2-3 weeks after groin surgery

The Jets received some sobering news that could test their stout run defense in the coming weeks. Inside linebacker David Harris had groin surgery Wednesday and will miss at least two to three weeks, according to a person familiar with the injury. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because he's not authorized to speak for Harris or Jets.

Jets coach Eric Mangini hinted that there might be a problem at his morning press conference when he admitted that Harris' return was "a longer shot this week."

The Jets leading tackler has been instrumental for a unit that ranks fourth in the league allowing just 76 rushing yards per game.

Harris, the quarterback in the Jets 3-4 scheme, recently visited a specialist since the injury was a bit more severe than originally believed.

Mangini was predictably vague about Harris' short-term prospects.

"I don't think the time frame is really set one way or the other," Mangini said. "We're just moving forward and trying to get him back as quickly as we can."

Harris, who has a team-high 52 tackles, was hurt in the Jets win over the Kansas City Chiefs two weeks ago. He did not practice or play last week, spending most of his time on the stationary bike in the portions of practice open to the media.

Veteran David Bowens had five tackles and a sack last week at Buffalo as Harris' replacement. The Jets held Buffalo to a season-low 30 yards on the ground.

"When (Harris is) in there, he can get to the ball and anticipate a lot of plays well," Bowens said. "I had five tackles (last week). Dave would have normally had like 10... I got to step that up. Obviously when he gets well, he'll be back in there. Your job as a backup (is) to go in there no matter what happens and produce."